Exploring Vermont’s Unique Thanksgiving Foods and Customs

Thanksgiving has long been a holiday of gratitude and gathering, but in Vermont it carries a special history tied to the state’s landscape and traditions. From early proclamations during the days of the Vermont Republic to modern farm-to-table feasts, the story of Thanksgiving here reflects both New England roots and distinctly local flavor.

Early Roots of Thanksgiving in New England

The earliest origins of Thanksgiving in America come from the Pilgrims and Puritans of Massachusetts. These early settlers held days of prayer and feasting to mark the end of harvest and to give thanks for survival in difficult times. As migration spread northward, families moving into the Green Mountains carried those customs with them. Vermont’s first communities often looked south to Massachusetts and Connecticut for religious and cultural traditions, adapting them to the harsher northern climate and rugged terrain.

While the concept of giving thanks was not unique to New England, the practice of declaring an annual day of gratitude became firmly rooted in the culture, eventually spreading into Vermont’s earliest towns and villages.

Vermont’s First Official Thanksgiving Proclamations

One of the most fascinating chapters in Vermont’s Thanksgiving history comes from the period when Vermont existed as an independent republic, from 1777 to 1791. During those years, Vermont’s governors issued proclamations calling for days of thanksgiving and prayer. These proclamations often reflected both the religious life of the time and the agricultural cycles that defined survival in the northern hills.

Even after Vermont joined the Union in 1791, the tradition of issuing proclamations continued. Local leaders would declare a day of thanks in late autumn, often aligning with the harvest season and emphasizing moral reflection, gratitude for freedom, and community support. For many Vermonters, Thanksgiving became both a civic and religious occasion that reinforced the tight-knit bonds of rural life.

The 19th Century and Thanksgiving’s Growth in Vermont

The 1800s saw Thanksgiving evolve into a more recognized holiday across New England, thanks in part to the advocacy of writer and editor Sarah Josepha Hale. Her decades-long campaign to establish Thanksgiving as a national holiday resonated in Vermont, where local papers often reprinted her calls for unity through gratitude.

In 1863, President Abraham Lincoln declared Thanksgiving a national holiday during the Civil War. Vermonters, who were deeply involved in the war effort, embraced the proclamation with a mixture of solemnity and relief. Churches across the state preached sermons on gratitude and perseverance, while families gathered to share meals that showcased local harvests.

Newspapers from the period describe tables laden with turkey, squash, cranberries, and pies, all grown and prepared in Vermont households. These accounts illustrate how the holiday became a cornerstone of family and community life.

Traditional Vermont Thanksgiving Foods

Food has always been central to Vermont’s Thanksgiving traditions. While turkey was the centerpiece, Vermont tables often included dishes unique to the region. Maple syrup, harvested in the spring but cherished year-round, flavored pies, glazes, and sauces. Root vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and turnips filled the plates alongside hearty stews made with venison or other local game.

Dairy products also gave Vermont’s Thanksgiving a unique stamp. Sharp cheddar cheese frequently appeared on holiday tables, whether paired with apple pie or served as part of a simple platter. These foods reflected the agricultural abundance of the state and created traditions that remain part of the holiday today.

Community and Church Gatherings

In Vermont’s small towns, Thanksgiving was not only a family affair but also a community event. Churches and town halls often hosted large gatherings where neighbors came together to share food and fellowship. These meals helped ensure that even those without abundant harvests could enjoy a feast. Sermons, hymns, and prayers anchored the day, reinforcing both gratitude and social bonds.

Over time, these gatherings shifted from primarily religious services to more social occasions. By the late 1800s, the emphasis was as much on togetherness and celebration as on solemn reflection. For many Vermonters, Thanksgiving became a highlight of the year to reconnect with neighbors and reaffirm community ties.

20th Century Changes in Vermont Thanksgiving

The 1900s brought new changes to Vermont’s Thanksgiving traditions. As families grew more mobile, the focus shifted from large community dinners to intimate family meals. Rural churches remained important, but more celebrations happened at home around the dining table.

Hunting season also shaped the modern Vermont Thanksgiving. Many families built traditions around combining the holiday meal with hunting trips, gathering wild game in addition to the traditional turkey. Newspapers of the early and mid-20th century frequently published recipes for Thanksgiving, emphasizing both tradition and the use of local ingredients such as apples, squash, and maple syrup.

Modern Vermont Thanksgiving Traditions

Today, Thanksgiving in Vermont continues to be shaped by the land and local culture. Many families buy their turkeys directly from local farms, and farm-to-table practices highlight the freshness of squash, cranberries, and maple-based desserts. Farmers markets and co-ops often prepare special offerings in the weeks leading up to the holiday, making it easy to source local products for the feast.

Volunteerism and community spirit also remain strong. Soup kitchens, food shelves, and churches organize community dinners across the state, ensuring that no one spends the day alone or without a meal. Town parades, football games, and small-scale festivals add a festive atmosphere, while the holiday shopping season begins to stir in local downtowns.

Visiting Vermont for Thanksgiving Today

For visitors, Vermont offers a unique opportunity to experience Thanksgiving with a local twist. Many inns and bed-and-breakfasts serve special meals featuring traditional dishes prepared with local ingredients. Restaurants and bakeries often offer pies, breads, and side dishes that reflect Vermont’s culinary heritage.

Beyond the table, Thanksgiving in Vermont can be enjoyed outdoors. Late fall hikes offer quiet trails and starkly beautiful views during stick season, while small towns begin their holiday celebrations with craft fairs and local shopping events. Living history museums sometimes highlight 18th and 19th century Thanksgiving traditions, offering a glimpse into how the holiday was celebrated generations ago.

Conclusion

Thanksgiving in Vermont is more than a holiday meal. It is a reflection of history, community, and the enduring relationship between people and the land. From the proclamations of the Vermont Republic to today’s farm-to-table gatherings, the traditions have evolved while keeping gratitude at their heart. Whether you live here year-round or visit for the holiday, Vermont offers a Thanksgiving experience steeped in history and enriched by local flavor.